Bilateral radial nerve palsies from use of the standard birthing bar

BACKGROUND: Serious injury can result from improper use of the birthing bar. CASE: A 31-year-old woman delivered a neonate using a birthing bar for her entire second stage of labor. Shortly after delivery, she experienced bilateral upper extremity weakness from compression of the radial nerve. She was treated with physical therapy and electromuscle stimulation and regained functional use of her upper extremities within 3 months. One year after delivery, the patient continued to display bilaterally only 80% muscle strength in her radial-innervated musculature. CONCLUSION: Improper use of the birthing bar during labor can cause serious and permanent injury to the radial nerve. Care should be taken when instructing patients on how to use the birthing bar to avoid this complication.